 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Harriet the Spy
- By Louise Fitzhugh
- Genre: Humor
Common Sense Media says
Great young sleuth helps kids be true to themselves.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that, even though Harriet is nosey, she thinks a lot of unkind thoughts, and she's also sneaky, stubborn, and is self-absorbed, these very qualities only serve to make her more real and, ultimately, lovable. Kids love her independent thinking and outspoken ways. This is a wonderful story for kids who have ever felt excluded before -- and that's just about every kid.
What's the story?
Harriet's in trouble when her classmates read about themselves in her secret notebook. When they start a Spy Catchers' Club--and guess who's not invited to join--Harriet turns to her nanny for help. Kids might not like the idea of Harriet writing about them, but they'll certainly enjoy reading what she has to say about everybody in her world!
Is it any good?
A children's favorite, especially among girls, for almost 40 years, this book is honest in its portrayal of the desperation and loneliness Harriet feels -- first, when her nanny leaves her and, later, when her friends turn against her. Girls, in particular, will identify with Harriet's strong drive to be true to herself.
Best of all, while HARRIET THE SPY deals with tough problems, such as how to deal with peer rejection and how to carry on without a beloved friend, it also manages, thanks to author Louise Fitzhugh's keen sense of the ridiculous, to be cheerful and often hilarious. Readers may even be inspired to start keeping their own notebooks -- though they shouldn't be so zealous as she is.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about the benefits of recording your thoughts and observations about the world around you in a journal that's meant for your eyes only. Are there things you'd write down on paper privately that you'd never say in public? If someone did happen to find your notebook and read it, would there be things in it that might hurt other people? How would you explain your actions?
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
Great book, but Harriet's a little, mean.
I like this book, but sometimes Harriet is a little nosy, and kind of moody. I think anyone 10 and up will be able to understand why, and not to act that way yourself. Besides, who wouldn't be angry if someone read their journal?
I think Ole'Golly is a positive romodle in this story. she always looks on the bright side of things, and is very smart.
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
I THOUGHT IT WAS INTERESTING
THE BOOK WAS AN INTERESTING BOOK TO BE. I THOUGHT IT WAS REALLY CREATIVE HOW THEY BUT A NOT BOOK INTO A CHAPTER BOOK. WE HAVE TO READ AR BOOKS AT MI SCHOOL SO I DECIDED TO GET HARRIET THE SPY BECAUSE WHEN I READ THE BACK OF THE BOOK IT SOUNDED INTERESTING.I GOT 7 OUT OF 10 QUESTIONS RIGHT. THE BOOK IS ABOUT HOW A GIRL HAS A PRIVET NOTEBOOK AND SHE WRITES ALL HER THOUGHTS DOWN ABOUT OTHER PEOPLE, EVEN HER FRIENDS. THEN ONE DAY HER FRIENDS GET A HOLD OF THE BOOK AND THEY ONLY READ THE THINGS THAT HARRIET WROTE ABOUT THEM THEN THEY WERE ALL MAD A HARRIET, THEN ONE DAY HARRIET HAS A TALK WITH HER FRIENDS THEN THEY ALL JUST BECOME FRIENDS AGAIN YOU HAVE TO READ THE BOOK IT IS TOO GOOD TO ME.
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
Perfect for ages 9-11.
I read this book when I was about 9 or 10. I loved it. I identified with the character. I understand parent's concerns with the book, but kids can understand and judge much more than we give them credit for.
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
Definately not a role model
I don't like the things Harriet says and the way she thinks about people, even saying her own mother his dumb. She refers to people as fat as well. This is not proper or kind and not accepted in our household.
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
Is it age approprate?
I think the book is age appropriate for kids 10 and up it has a few words in it. but it is a good book and teaches a good lesson
Was this review useful?
|
|
Kid, 11 years old
July 3, 2011
AGE
luv it
when harriet finds out shes going to dancing school, she sez " i'll be d#m%ed if I go to dancing school" great book anyway.
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
good if they're old enough to know right from wrong
If your child is old enough to understand that the point of a book is to observe behavior and decide for oneself whether that behavior is right or wrong, this is a great book. Harriet's behavior (some of which is completely unacceptable -- like sneaking into neighbor's houses) helps the reader understand and empathize with her state of mind and furthers the storyline.
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
Must read this book for 9-11 years old
Harriet is a spy....and she had said that when she grow up she will be a writer because she loves to spy........
Was this review useful?
|
|
| Author: | Louise Fitzhugh |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | Humor |
| Publisher: | Yearling Books |
| Publication date: | December 31, 1969 |
| Number of pages: | 298 |
| Paperback price: | $5.99 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 9 - 12 |
Review It
Register now to save reviews and advice articles to your personal lists!
Great alternatives handpicked by our editors
Already read it? What do you think?
More from Common Sense Media
Top advice and articles
